Many veggies are great fresh like zucchini, cucumbers, salad greens – some need to be cooked for better absorption in the body. Below are seven veggies you should take the time to prepare before consuming.
Asparagus
It won’t harm you to consume asparagus raw, but cooking it actually helps your body absorb more of its cancer-fighting nutrients.
Mushrooms
Again, mushrooms can be eaten raw, but you’ll receive more of the potassium-rich benefits if you take the time to sauté, roast or even grill them. THIS chart compares the potassium in raw vs cooked mushrooms (search mushrooms).
Tomatoes
Obvious we eat raw tomatoes in salads, sandwiches, etc., but your body can absorb more of the cancer-fighting ingredient lycopene from cooked tomatoes. Try some grilled tomatoes in a sandwich!
Potatoes
For some reason, I get asked A LOT on @lilsipper why “why can’t I eat raw potatoes?”. Um, well…..they’re toxic uncooked. That’s why! haha Not only do raw potatoes contain toxins and anti-nutrients that can harm your body, but their uncooked starchiness can also cause digestive discomfort. *Note, this applies to all non-sweet potatoes (russet, white, red, fingerling, purple – not to be confused with purple SWEET POTATO)
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are another vegetable that can cause gas and bloating if consumed raw. They’re not toxic, however they can cause a great deal of discomfort when eaten uncooked. For better digestion and absorption, steam, roast, or saute with avocado oil.
Cauliflower
Another reoccurring question I get on @lilsipper is why do I steam my cauliflower before freezing fro my smoothies? The fact is, YOU DIGEST IT BETTER and less gas and bloating occur. Try lightly steaming it to retain the liver-cleansing enzymes it contains!
